Nanny Caroline

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

My priorities while nannying:

Safety. Safety will always be my first thought. In order for a child to learn boundaries, safety and rules must already be thought of and set in place.
Outside play - to get fresh air, sunlight (important for circadian rhythm), and to encourage exploration and grounding oneself.
The Arts - music, dance, drawing, painting, clay, theatre, etc. are terrific ways to express creativity and help to manage emotions.
Learning through the act of doing - I am a big supporter of letting a child try things on their own before assisting. Children learn through play, adults learn through trial and error. It's all about trying, practicing, and asking for help when you can't find a better solution.
Get children involved - children, just like adults, want to feel like part of a community. When children start to get old enough, we cook together, wipe up their spills, help with laundry and clean their spot at the dining table. Life skills will make them more independent and feel more valuable as a contributing community member.

Philosophy of Discipline

Situations can often be avoided. Baby proofing homes can prevent incidents, using correctly installed car seats can prevent severe injuries. If a child is showing signs of hunger, feed them. If they are tired, make sure they rest their body and mind with naps or quiet times. I also believe that one-on-one attention and consistency go a long way and can prevent unwanted behaviors.

Personally, I use bits and pieces of different methods. I believe children learn best through play and experience. I feel that most children work better when they have a set routine/schedule and have set expectations. No two children are alike, and therefore my expectations for them will be different. I find that a set daily and/or weekly routine helps children to know what's coming and gives them the confidence to succeed in the planned activity.

If a child is wanting to do an activity that I do not feel is safe or the child is showing inappropriate behavior, then I believe in offering 2-3 choices that I am okay with them deciding on. It gives them the chance to have a voice on the topic, but also gives me the chance to make sure that the choice will be safe and appropriate.

Misbehavior can be an opportunity for learning, and giving children a chance to be actively engaged in coming up with a solution can help them learn for future situations. For temper tantrums, I use a quiet corner with quiet activities for children to calm themselves down. This allows them a chance to find the words they need to tell me, what they want or are frustrated about, then when they are prepared to talk we can sit down and discuss what’s going on.

I'm more than happy to try new things and methods that the parents are interested in doing. Communication is key.

Employee Philosophy

I can have a wonderful, meaningful connection with any child. What makes a nanny position work is the relationship with the parents. A negotiated and written work agreement can cover most childcare and employee related issues in advance. Communication is important and when issues and concerns arise for any of us, we should bring it to the table promptly with understanding and respect, and discuss it in a positive manner.

As a person assisting in raising your child, I would appreciate that my input be heard and considered on child-related matters. However, I do understand and appreciate that the parent's decision is final. I have provided daily journal notes about our day's activities, events, concerns and accomplishments either in written form or through an app for families based on their preference.

I am a very punctual and dependable person. I give as much time as possible to parents for requesting time off, as I know my bosses schedules are often hectic.

I am respectful of my employer's privacy and personal business. I am discreet when asked about my job and family matters. I am motivated to have a positive experience with my employers', as I hope to find a long-term fit to stay with the children as long as possible.